Ciambella, a traditional Italian ring cake, is a delightful and simple treat often enjoyed for breakfast or as a light snack with a cup of coffee. Its slightly dense texture and light sweetness make it a favorite in Italian households, particularly in regions like Tuscany and Umbria. Here’s how you can make this classic dessert at home:
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 pinch of salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup whole milk (or you can use buttermilk for a richer taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 lemon (or orange zest for a different flavor)
- 2 tablespoons liquor (optional, such as rum or limoncello)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
1. Prepare Your Baking Pan
Traditional ciambella is baked in a ring mold, but you can also use a Bundt pan or a tube pan if you don’t have a specific ciambella mold. Grease the pan with butter and lightly dust it with flour to prevent the cake from sticking.
2. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready when you finish preparing the batter.
3. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside.
4. Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar using an electric mixer or by hand with a whisk until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step should take about 3-5 minutes.
5. Add the Eggs
One at a time, add the eggs to the butter-sugar mixture, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Beat the mixture well after each addition.
6. Incorporate the Wet Ingredients
Stir in the vanilla extract, lemon zest (or orange zest), and the liquor if you’re using it. Then, gradually add the milk, alternating with the dry flour mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined—avoid over-mixing to keep the cake light and airy.
7. Pour the Batter into the Pan
Carefully pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
8. Bake the Ciambella
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. The top should be golden brown and firm to the touch.
9. Let It Cool
Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. Then, carefully turn the cake out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Dust with Powdered Sugar
Once the ciambella has cooled, dust the top with powdered sugar for a finishing touch. This step is optional but adds a nice decorative look to the cake.
Tips for Making the Perfect Ciambella
- Flavor Variations: While traditional ciambella is flavored with lemon or orange zest, you can also add cocoa powder for a chocolate twist or a spoonful of ground cinnamon for a warm, spiced version.
- Serving Suggestions: Ciambella is delicious on its own but can also be served with jam, fresh fruit, or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence.
- Storage: Store leftover ciambella in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. It can also be frozen for longer storage.
This traditional Italian ring cake is easy to make, yet rich in flavor, and it’s perfect for a casual dessert or an everyday treat. Enjoy your homemade ciambella with a cup of tea or coffee!